What is the White Ribbon Campaign?

The White Ribbon Campaign serves to eliminate violence against women – it’s supported by the United Nations and is international in focus. The White Ribbon campaign runs all year round but is publicly profiled on White Ribbon Day on 25 November each year: White Ribbon Day was initiated by a group of Canadian men in 1991 on the anniversary of one man’s massacre of 14 women in Montreal. In 1999, the UN declared November 25 as the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women; the White Ribbon has become the symbol for the day. Today, the White Ribbon Campaign is the largest ongoing effort in the world (and in Australia) of men working to end men’s violence against women. Wearing a white ribbon is seen as a pledge never to commit, condone or remain silent about violence against women.

The PDs’ Dragon Boat teams racing at the Roseville Regatta were each called the ‘White Ribbon Crew’ for the day. This was announced over the PA system, publicising the Crews and the Campaign. PDs bought White Ribbons to wear on uniform tops, which highlighted their membership of the PDs’ White Ribbon Crew and added visible support to the Campaign. White Ribbons were also sold to other Regatta attendees raising funds for the White Ribbon Foundation.

Thanks to Pacific Dragons paddlers for their support to the White Ribbon Campaign.